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Resources to Help with Legal and Financial Issues for Self-Advocates and Caregivers

From time to time, self-advocates and family supports run into obstacles, grey areas, and bigger problems in the course of navigating the world, especially when dealing with organizations or systems that are not trained in autism spectrum disorder(ASD). Families report struggling with issues such as filing taxes; setting up bank accounts; obtaining insurance; struggling to keep employment; or estate planning. At those times, it can be difficult to know where to obtain information or support. This document can give you a place to start.

Organizations that can provide information or support

Sometimes we need a helping hand:

  • Legal Aid Ontario http://www.legalaid.on.ca/en/ 1-800-668-8258 – Legal Aid Ontario promotes access to justice in Ontario for low-income individuals.
  • Pro Bono Ontario https://www.probonoontario.org/about/ – Pro Bono Ontario connects volunteer lawyers with Ontarians who can’t afford a lawyer with a lawyer.
  • Social Justice Tribunals Ontario (SJTO) http://www.sjto.gov.on.ca/en/ – is a cluster of eight adjudicative tribunals with a mandate to resolve applications and appeals brought under statutes relating to child and family services oversight, youth justice, human rights, residential tenancies, compensation for victims of violent crime, disability support and other social assistance, and special education. SJTO has provided a list of where to get legal help: http://www.sjto.gov.on.ca/en/getting-legal-help/
  • Human Rights Legal Support Centre http://www.hrlsc.on.ca/en/home 1-866-625-5179 – The Human Rights Legal Support Centre provides legal services to individuals who have experienced discrimination. The Centre will provide legal assistance to individuals in taking an application to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario to resolve a human rights dispute.
  • The Office of the Public Guardian & Trustee (OPGT) https://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/family/pgt/ 1-800-518-7901 – OPGT delivers a range of services that safeguard the legal, personal and financial interests of certain private individuals and estates.
  • The Special Needs Planning Group: http://www.specialneedsplanning.ca/ 1-905-640-8285 – The Special Needs Planning Group’s sole purpose is to assist families in the provision of a secure financial future for our loved ones with disabilities.
  • Psychiatric Patient Advocate Office: http://www.sse.gov.on.ca/mohltc/ppao/en/default.aspx 1 800 578 2343 – The Psychiatric Patient Advocate Office protects and promotes the rights and entitlements of Ontarians with mental illness through advocacy, rights advice and education.

Sometimes we need information:

  • Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO) http://www.cleo.on.ca/en CLEO (Community Legal Education Ontario / Éducation juridique communautaire Ontario) helps people understand their legal rights by providing information.
  • Partners for Planning http://www.planningnetwork.ca The P4P Planning Network provides free resources including webcasts followed by live Q&A, inspiring documentaries and stories, financial and legal planning tools, and more.

Sometimes we need help from professionals (Fee for Service Options):

The agencies or individuals listed here listed here are those who are recognized as experts in Ontario and who are consulted as such by stakeholder agencies. These are some of the services that have often been used by families. There may be other professionals who are not listed here, with whom you may wish to consult. It is important to make sure that the financial or legal expert you consult has previous experience with disability issues.

  • ARCH Disability Law http://www.archdisabilitylaw.ca/ 1-866-482-2724 – ARCH Disability Law Centre is a specialty community legal aid clinic dedicated to defending and advancing the equality rights of people with disabilities in Ontario.
  • Pooran Law Professional Corporation http://www.pooranlaw.com/ 1-416-860-7572 – They specialize in maximizing access to financial supports such as the Ontario Disability Program (ODSP), Passport and other forms of Individualized Funding, the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and various benefits through the income tax system.
  • Ability Tax and Trust Advisors http://abilitytax.ca/ 1-877-690-0330 – They provide integrated services that include disability tax reviews and applications, taxpayer relief requests, personal and trust tax filings, tax appeals, and estate and trust planning.

Sometimes we can benefit from others’ experiences:

  • Connected Families Forum at ConnectABILITY.CA http://connectability.ca/connected-families/ – On Connected Families, self-advocates, caregivers and family members can post a question and get feedback from other families and service providers who may have had similar experiences.

How To Spend & Track Passport Funding

Zach

How Do I Use My Passport Dollars

Passport funding can be used to access community participation and activities of daily living. It can be used for caregivers to take a break from their caregiving responsibilities. Moreover, it can be used to create personal life plans. This is called person-directed planning to reach one’s goals. You can also use Passport funding for administration and tools to keep track of what your funding is spent on. Passport funding is a fiscal year funding from April 1 to March 31 of the following year. It is a reimbursement program, where you initially have to pay for the supports and services, keep all receipts, complete the invoice form, and submit it to the local passport agency for processing. The processing time may vary across Ontario. You should contact your local passport agency to find out the processing time for reimbursement. If you are uncertain about what supports and expenses are covered under Passport contact the local agency prior to the purchase of supports and get approval in writing. Ministry Guideline for the Passport Program:

NEW Passport program guidelines – April 2022

Community Participation and Activities of Daily Living

Passport funding can be used to access Community Participation and daily living activities to help the adult with a developmental disability participate fully in the community. Here are some supports and services the funding can be used for:

  • Programs/Classes
  • Sports and Recreational
  • Pre-Employment and employment Supports
  • Volunteering Supports
  • Post-secondary Education support
  • Transportation for activities
  • Participation in community activities and events
  • Paying a support worker to help with community participation and daily living activities

Here are some examples from across Ontario:

    • Community Activities/Events: admission tickets to various sporting, musical events, gym memberships, personal trainers, private classes, camps, painting nights, wine clubs and singles mingling events, Special Olympics.
    • It can be used to pay for additional costs for day programs not covered through base funded programs. Individuals do not have to give up their base funded spot when approved for passport funding.
    • Activities outside the region, cross-regional (people living in 2 regions)
    • Post-Secondary supports if not covered by OSAP or if used to audit courses
  • Annual memberships (zoo, museums, amusement parks)
  • Fishing
  • Camping
  • Picnic and fairs
  • Transportation: bus passes/tickets, taxis, mileage for support workers

Caregiver Respite

Caregiver respite is a temporary help to provide a break to the primary caregivers. This can be during the day, evening or weekend, and can be in-home or out-of-home support. Respite includes supervising or providing supports for individuals with daily living activities such as personal care. Support worker can be anyone over the age of 18. However, it cannot be the primary caregivers. Here are some Respite Options:

  • Paying a support worker to support with community participation or with daily living activities. This includes the expenses while providing support (e.g., meals, transportation and activity fees, expenses for accompanying the individual during trips).
  • Hiring private coaches, personal tutors or trainers to develop specific and personal goals
  • Traveling and Vacation: if support is required families can pay for support worker costs; in some regions it can be out of country.

Person Directed Planning

Passport funding can be used to develop a person-directed plan that builds on the individual’s strengths and interests and identifies supports to help them achieve their goals. There are often person directed planners in agencies; check through your passport agency to purchase a planner. It is also possible to hire an independent facilitator through agencies or private consultants. Some regions have a list of Independent facilitators.

Resources for Person Directed Planning:

Administration

Up to ten per cent of Passport funding can be used for administrative supports such as bookkeeping, bank fees, and payroll and scheduling support workers.

Pro-Tips:

  • Prior approval from the Passport Agency must be obtained to receive reimbursement for supports/expenses that are not normally covered under the program.
  • Always get approval in writing before purchasing supports and services.
  • Choose your language carefully. Explain clearly your reason for spending money this way, for example the efficiency and savings you achieve.
  • The invoice forms must be signed by the funding administrator and keep all receipts. They can be photocopies.
  • Find other families to pool your passport money with. For example, this could be for transportation to and from a program or to access specific programming/events with a support worker.

Zach’s Story

Zach is 32 years old and was approved for Passport funding. He uses the funding to audit university courses, mileage to get him to and from leading a support group. He also uses a respite worker who goes to movies with him and other activities that interest him. Additionally he uses the funding to attend the yearly Geneva Centre for Autism Symposium.

How do I Track my Passport Funding

Once individuals are approved for Passport allocation they are sent a package which contains the approval letter, copies of invoices and a sheet to help caregivers and individuals keep track of their funding. Up to 10 percent of the passport funds can be used to cover the administration costs. You have the option of doing it yourself or purchasing services from external agencies and businesses. You can also contact your regional Passport agency for information on ways to track your funds.

Here are some options to help you track the funds:

  • My Direct Plan is a free, secure tool for managing your budget and submitting your Passport and SSAH invoices online.
  • Electronic Tools: use of Excel Spreadsheet, Tables charts to keep track of your daily, weekly and monthly expenses.
  • Manual Methods: Planners, invoice tracking sheets
  • Agencies and private businesses: Caregivers have the option to flow the funds through Transfer Payment agencies (such as Community Living agencies, Kerry’s Place Autism Services, Geneva Centre for Autism) or private businesses (ie. Accountants, brokers etc…). Note: agencies and businesses may take a certain percentage of the funds to cover the administration costs.

Pro Tip: Divide the total amount approved into 12 and allocate yourself with a monthly amount. Then, whoever gives services to your son/daughter, ask them to sign the invoices after they are done, making sure you are always within your budget. You can usually do this in a word document or a table. You can also use a planner and keep track on another sheet when each month’s funds are used.

Transition Planning Milestones for Youth with Autism

Transitioning to adulthood is a process requiring advanced planning and preparation. Some of the services and supports a child under 18 has will come to an end and new adult services may begin. Parents may need to develop new expectations, activities, supports and services for a growing adult. The person with ASD will need support to identify their interests, strengths and their next steps.

Questions for the person with Autism:

  • What do I want to do after high school?
  • What am I great at?
  • Where will I live?
  • Successful transitions require early planning and practice, practice, practice!

Looking Ahead… Together: A transition planning tool for young adults with autism spectrum disorder

Grade 8 and Planning for Grade 9

Entering high school can feel like entering a whole new country. Knowing the language is important so you can make informed choices.

The choices can feel complicated. The more students and their families are part of making choices about school the more control a student has over their destination.

Things to think about before you get to Grade 9:

Questions for the person with Autism:

High school programs: What are my choices?

    • What does a high school offer? Understand what choice of programs high schools offer. Some programs to ask about: Special Education Programs, Students with intellectual disabilities, Self-directed Learning, Gifted and Resource Programs.

Will I earn a diploma, what are my choices?
When making Grade 9 course selections, be sure you understand the number and type of credits required to graduate.

How will the courses a student chooses in high school affect their choices for life after high school?

Be familiar with and ask your school questions about these terms:

  • Certificate of Accomplishment (COA): The Certificate of Accomplishment is granted to students who do not fulfill the requirements of the OSSD or OSSC. It recognizes a student’s participation in a secondary school program. Students are enrolled in K courses (non-credit).
  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD): The Ontario Secondary School Diploma is granted after fulfilling all necessary credit, literacy and community hour requirements.

Transition to High School, a guide to help prepare your child for high school

The Summer Before Grade 9

Attend the Getting Ready for High School Orientation Day.
Keep a look out for the orientation days which high schools hold in August and the first week of September. These days are designed to help students prepare for high school. Some communities have more intensive high school preparation groups or workshops. Ask your local community agency or school staff.

Make sure travel arrangements to and from school are organized.

Become familiar with and PRACTICE high school routines and timetables.
The school will provide information regarding start/end times and basic routines. Most schools allow about 5 minutes to get to your next class. Lunch periods will be included in your timetable. Use the summer to get familiar with new routines and lunch time.

Other related content on ConnectABILITY

In Grades 9s and 10

During your son/daughter’s grade 10 year, they will be asked to choose a course “destination” or” pathway”. This choice is made knowing their interests for future work, their current performance in high school courses and their current stream.

University Preparation Courses

  • Designed to prepare students with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the entrance requirements needed for university programs.
  • Courses are based on the theory of the subject matter, with the inclusion of some hands-on application.

College Preparation Courses

  • Designed to prepare students with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet entrance requirements for college and some apprenticeship programs.
  • Courses are based on concrete applications or subject matter with a focus on the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Workplace Preparation Courses

    • Designed to prepare students with the skills and knowledge necessary for direct entry into the workplace, for admission to apprenticeship programs and other training programs offered in the community.

Promote the importance of life-long learning.

Community Participation Courses

  • Designed to prepare students for transition to community participation.
  • Promote meaningful social inclusion in the community.

Annual Transition Planning Meetings

  • Did you know you are entitled to Annual Transition Planning Meetings each year of high school with the high school?Q.
      • What is a High School Transition Planning Meeting?

    A.

      Transition Planning Meetings can begin in grade 9 and be held at least once a year through to graduation. The purpose of the meetings is to plan for life after high school.
  • Parents have the right to invite outside community agencies to assist in the planning for transitioning out of high school.
  • Some sample goals that may come from a student’s Transitioning Planning meeting may include: Complete volunteer hours, Link with employment agencies for summer employment, increase opportunities to gain independence (cooking, public transit)
  • Keep the lines of communication open! Ask your child how he/she is adjusting to high school. Remind him/ her that there are many caring adults that are available to help: Guidance Counsellors, Teachers, Child and Youth Workers, Administrators, Chaplains, Coaches, Educational Assistants, Student Success Teachers. Get connected with a Social Service Agency in your community.

The teenage student’s social life

Things to think about for the high school teen?

  • How are they coping at lunch time? Are there other places to eat lunch?
  • Are they using social media in a safe way?
  • Do they know where to go for help in the school?
  • Do they need support making friends? Many high schools have Peer Support Programs?
  • Are there school clubs that your student would enjoy?
  • Do they need help to prepare for the high school dance?
  • Are they hearing the morning announcements ?
  • Are they ready for a girlfriend or boyfriend?

Other related content on ConnectABILITY

At Age 16

If you have not already started, this is the age to get students connected to part time work, social and recreation options. People with ASD need PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE in their social lives and their work lives.

The connections they make between 16-18 may be a stepping stone to adult relationships, recreation and work after age 18.

  • Apply to the DSO
  • Making the most of your school time (Social groups etc.)
  • Friends and relationships
  • Develop Community skills

Apply to Developmental Services Ontario (DSO)

The Ontario Government has adult supports and services.
At age 16 apply for adult support and services with your local Developmental Service Ontario office https://www.dsontario.ca/

Get social!

Encourage your child to get involved. Students should listen to announcements that advertise try-outs for teams or meetings for clubs. Getting involved will allow students to make new friends and feel a part of the school community. This is a trouble zone for many people with ASD. The social world can be tricky. Have a plan for finding out about school events and clubs in more than one way.

Is your child staying healthy? Are immunizations up to date? When was his/her last medical check-up? Is he/ she physically active, eating nutritious meals, getting enough sleep? Being well physically will certainly help students reach their academic potential and social potential.

Check here for ASD friendly events in your area!

Tools for Planning Ahead

There a variety of online planning tools to help families as children become teenagers and then adults.

Autism Parent Resource Kit
This kit has sections on Common Transitions, Family Transitions and Educational Transitions
http://www.children.gov.on.ca/htdocs/English/specialneeds/autism/aprk/index.aspx

The KIT: Keeping it Together is an organizational tool. It is a way to organize information for your child, and to assist you when interacting with different service systems, for example health, education, and recreation. It is useful for parents of children from birth to 21 years.

The KIT is made for youth with ASD to keep track of important information as they transition to adulthood. https://www.canchild.ca/system/tenon/assets/attachments/000/000/721/original/Youth_Kit_Online.pdf

Sub: Developing Skills for Adult Life
People with ASD need opportunities to practice many things. Think of the high school years as practice years for adulthood. Here are some independent living skills teens in Grades 9 through 11 may want to practice: Cooking/Laundry/Financial Literacy/Travel training etc.

Click on these links for more Developing Skills for Adult Life resources:

18+ yrs old

    • Apply for ODSP

Getting ready for life after high school

Did you know that in Ontario a student can be in school until you are 21, but your rights change at 18.

Life after highschool:

After finishing high school there are different pathways you can choose: post–secondary education, community participation, apprenticeships (leading to employment) or employment. You could also combine some of these pathways to have varied daily experiences.

The transition from school to work, further education, and community living can be particularly challenging for many exceptional students. A successful transition is significantly increased when:

  • schools work with parents, employers, community agencies and providers of further education to develop coordinated plans and community networks
  • it is planned early
  • there are short term and long term goals set each year of high school. These goals relate to community networks, identifying necessary life skills for community living, workplace experiences

Post-secondary education

There are a number of options to continue your formal education after high school. These include full-time programs, part-time programs and adult continuing education courses often provided by your local school boards and colleges.

University/College

University
Universities provide degree programs that are theoretical in nature and these programs vary for each university. Most undergraduate programs range in cost from 6,000 dollars to 10,000 dollars per year. Books are extra. If the individual chooses to live away from home the cost increase.

WHO is university for?

  • Your son/daughter enjoys abstract concepts associated with course material and academic/ theoretical learning.
  • Your son/daughter can complete much of their own work independently.

How can you prepare for university?

  • Your son/daughter must be enrolled primarily in Academic courses in Grades 9 & 10 and University “U” or University/College “M” courses in Grades 11 & 12.

College
College programs provide an effective combination of real-life skills with quality education. Pursuing college studies is more economically feasible, approximately $3000 to $5000 per year.

WHO is college for?

  • Your son/daughter finds success in practical applied curriculum.
  • Your son/daughter enjoys smaller classes and a personal approach to instruction.

Inclusive Education Programs at Ontario Colleges
The idea of attending college can be intimidating when you have autism. Inclusive Education programs (also known as Community Integration through Co-operative Education programs ) at Ontario colleges give you the opportunity to experience college life and pursue postsecondary education, with courses tailored to meet your individual needs. You will learn the skills you need to be independent in your community and find employment in your chosen field.

Post-Secondary Education Supports

  • Autism Ontario’s free Education Portal is a one-stop shop for helpful autism-related resources. Once you register, you will have access to all past webinars, helpful articles, and information about Autism Spectrum Disorder to assist you on your journey from diagnosis through to adulthood. https://www.autismontario.com
  • There is often post-secondary financial assistance available for those who require it. Check the Canadian government website or your local provincial website (i.e. Ontario Student Assistance Program).

Other Post-Secondary Resources

Community Participation/ Day Programs

This includes things like enjoying social, fun or spiritual activities; developing self-help skills; continuing to learn after high school: taking a course, volunteering, using public libraries or participating in activities at a community centre; volunteering or preparing for a job.
These opportunities may be available through the Community Agencies with which students are affiliated. All of the agencies are included in the DSO (Developmental Services Ontario – http://www.dsontario.ca/ )

Ontario Passport Funding

Passport is a program that helps adults 18 years or older with a developmental disability to participate in their communities.

For more Community Participation Supports Resources

Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship is a practical method of learning specific work skills that combines a variety of destinations, especially work and college. There are over 150 skilled trades in Ontario that can be classified into four sectors: Construction, Industrial, Motive Power and Service. For a complete list of trades, check out: www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/tcu or www.oyaptcdsb.com

Employment

Students who are considering going to work immediately following secondary school may decide to do so after achieving an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or an Ontario Secondary School Certificate (OSSC). Students who are interested in this pathway are encouraged to take part in co-operative education programs in grades 11 and/or 12. They are also encouraged to consider the Specialized High Skills Major (SHSM) program that may be offered at their school. In consultation with the Guidance Counsellor and Co-op Teacher, students can plan their pathway to work. Participation in the local Job Fairs in which students have the opportunity to meet employers and to develop job search skills is of great benefit to students who are looking for employment. This is a excellent place to register with their local employment agency.

Many people with ASD with all different abilities can work and earn their own income.
Here’s how:

  • Use your special interests and strengths to help you choose your job.
  • Consider asking for help to find work and keep work

Employment resources

Employment: Resources, tools supporting successful employment and the business case for hiring a person with a disability http://connectability.ca/2016/07/05/employment/

Transitioning to Employment. This article tells us students with ASD need more help in the following areas related to employment: Social interactions with colleagues, organizational skills and sensory challenges, understanding different roles/careers , interviewing, managing anxiety, reading social cues, self-advocating , mental health and gives ideas for how schools can support employment. Transition to employment

Ontario Job Opportunity Information Network (JOIN)
Ontario Job Opportunity Information Network (JOIN) offers a single point of access for job seekers, employers, and service providers. We work to match skilled candidates with specific employment positions being offered by our partners, or help refer them to service providers who will meet their needs. As well, we provide educational strategies and supports for employers to provide full inclusion and expertise on disability in the workplace. So whether you are a job seeker, employer or service provider, you have come to the right place – we can’t wait to work with you! http://joininfo.ca/

Ontario Disability Employment Network (ODEN)
The Ontario Disability Employment Network is a professional body of employment service providers united to increase employment opportunities for people who have a disability. http://odenetwork.com/

Community First

Community First was a 2 year project funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services Employment and Modernization Fund. This initiative was developed to modernize service delivery by laying the foundation to shift away from traditional site based programs to more responsive individualized community options.

For more information about Community First and IOPEN, please contact Flora Nichols at fnichols@cltoronto.ca

For Access to Community First and IOPEN, please contact Developmental Services Toronto Region at 416-925-4930

The transition to adulthood: A parents story

Matt, a father, shares his experiences of being a primary caregiver for his daughter Leah, who has a developmental disability as well as complex care needs. Matt speaks about resources that he has used with some success, and the transition into adulthood for Leah and what it means for both father and daughter.

This presentation was done for a LIGHTs event in partnership with Community Living Toronto on April 12th, 2017.

Transition Planning Training – 2017

TES-cover

A three part series for direct support professional’s to help meet the complex needs related to transition planning

This training will provide participants with knowledge and skills to better prepare individuals with a developmental disability and those who support them to move through these transitions with confidence and with the resources they need. The series will also include information on supporting a system of seamless planning and implementation, as well as unique issues for different transitions (e.g., youth to adult, adult to aging, environment changes).

Day 1: Youth Transitions

Presentations:

East Metro Youth Services: Youth Mental Health
Identifying People with DD, Dementia and Brain Injury Experiencing Homelessness
Dignity of Risk

Handouts:

Day 2: Adult Transitions

Presentations

Developmental Disabilities Awareness in the Criminal System Project
Planning for Complex Situations
Relationship Work Group

Handouts:

Day 3: Aging Transitions

Presentations

Long-Term Care: reframing the Conversation
Aging and Primary Care
Palliative Care Across the Lifespan

Handouts:

Approaching our work through the Lens of Equity and Diversity

This year we started each day off with a short 1/2 hour activity focused on equity and diversity.

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3

Join A-Team for the March 2016 Open Meeting with a special guest!

Join A-Team for their March 16th open meeting. An open meeting means every participant can bring one guest to the meeting with them. (Please let them know if you will be bring a guest).

The meetings start at 7:30pm at KW Habilitation (99 Ottawa St. S, Kitchener) on the 3rd floor.

The topic for the March meeting is: Navigating Employment Services in the Region. Jenn Delhorbe, Supervisor of Community Participation and Employment Supports with KW Habilitation will be the guest facilitator.

Please RSVP by emailing ateam.waterlooregion@gmail.com

MagnusCards

MagnusCards is a free app that combines a proven method of instruction (Social Stories) with elements of game design to help people learn life skills. With Magnus as your guide, you can collect and create digital Card Decks, which provide step-by-step instructions for various social interactions, situations, behaviours, and activities. For example: grocery shopping, doing laundry, and taking the bus.

Tip sheets:

MagnusMode.com

Employment

“Competitive employment is broadly defined as remunerative employment that can reasonably be expected to contribute to a person’s economic well-being. It can mean conventional employment where there is a typical employee/employer relationship and the employee is earning minimum wage or more. It can include full-time, part-time, contract, or seasonal employment in order to recognize the diverse nature of people’s disabilities and how their disabilities may impact their employment.”

Excerpt from Social assistance policy directives Ontario Disability Support Program – Introduction to Employment Supports – September 2006 Link

The Family Support Network for Employment (FSNE)

The Family Support Network for Employment (FSNE) is a family-led coalition that seeks to engage individuals with intellectual disabilities and their family member in supportive networks around employment, social infrastructure, and resources. We believe employment is a means of inclusion. https://fsne.ca/

Partnerships, resources and Tools supporting successful employment

Employment Transitions and the Developmental Services

Topics include:

  • Youth and transitional employment strategies
  • Job search strategies
  • ODSP Employment

Play

How to get Recruited in a Diverse Pool

Wondering if you should self-disclose a disability from application to interview to hire can be challenging. Listen to an HR recruiting professional talk about navigating the process, how to speak to your strengths and your accommodation requests within a diverse talent pool.

Ontario Disability Support Program: Employment Supports

Learn more about:

  • Applying for ODSP Employment Supports
  • What is available
  • How to appeal

http://www.mcss.gov.on.ca/en/mcss/programs/social/odsp/employment_support/

What is Employment Supports

Employment Supports: A Panel Discussion (Recorded at DSO Info Fair Toronto Oct. 11, 2018)

Ready Willing & Able – Building an inclusive Labour Force

The Canadian Association for Community Living (CACL) and the Canadian Autism Spectrum Disorders Alliance (CASDA) are very proud to be partners in the delivery of the Ready Willing and Able (RWA) initiative. RWA, a three-year project funded by the Government of Canada, is designed to increase the workforce participation of people with intellectual disabilities and ASD.
http://readywillingable.ca/

Ontario Disability Employment Network

A professional body of employment service providers united to increase employment opportunities for people who have a disability. Their Vision is that all people who have a disability in Ontario have access to the labour force and the ability to achieve meaningful employment.
http://odenetwork.com/

CNE Opportunity

Learn why and how the CNE has committed to having 20% of its workforce represented by people with a disability, and what agencies can do to support you in terms of employment opportunities.

Making Work Work – A Comprehensive Person-Centred Resource and Navigation Tool towards Employment

The intention of the MAKING WORK WORK guide is to be a comprehensive reference tool for professionals who specifically support adults with developmental disabilities to navigate towards and to maintain work that matters. Developed and presented by Michael Mackenzie – Montage Support Services Making Work Work

Autism Speaks Family Services Employment Tool Kit

Autism Speaks would like to help you with your employment search by giving you tools and tips while you look for a job. As an adult on the autism spectrum, you have strengths and abilities that employers are just beginning to understand. Therefore, we have written this guide to help you research, find and keep employment in the current, competitive labor market.
Employment tool kit

Creating Employment and Training Opportunities in your Community Tips for networking within your community

There is no right or wrong way to approach employers and other community members. Every situation is different. Here are some general tips that might help you in your quest to network within your community.
Read more >>

How to Support Someone at Work

Often times when a person with an intellectual disability is beginning any new activity, whether it is work or recreational, they will need different kinds of supports to transition them into the activity.
Read more >>

The First Job and Beyond

Gaining work experience is a great way for someone to explore occupations that might interest them in the future.
Read more >>

Ten Characteristics of Valued Employees

Are you new to the workforce? Do you not have a lot of work experience? Do you wonder, “What do I possibly have to offer an employer”?

If you were to do an online search for the most valuable employee character traits, you’d see that some of the top things employers are looking for are related to your personality. In other words, things you have total control over!
Read more >>

Twelve Ways to Be A Great Employee (and Keep Earning Money!!)

You have a new job – great! But this doesn’t mean that it’s time to sit back, relax and collect a paycheck. Your boss isn’t going to pay you to just show up! It is very important that you continue to be a good employee if you want to keep your job – and keep earning more money.
Read more >>

7 Ways to Fight Work Place Stress

Have you recently started working? Are you now feeling stressed about everything you have to do at work, or keeping your job? Work is hard sometimes, but there are many ways to cope. Below are some tips on stress management in the workplace.
Read more >>

Employment: Disability and disclosure

A job coach’s tips on disclosure in the workplace

What is disclosure?
Releasing personal information about yourself for a specific purpose. Today, more job seekers with disabilities are entering the workforce. For persons with disabilities, finding and keeping work is usually no different than for those without disabilities. However, there may be additional things to consider, such as disclosure—if, when and how to tell people about your disability. Read more

Richard talks about disclosure from a job coaches perspective

David discuss disability and disclosure in the workplace

A panel discussion with: Lubna Aslam, David Mahoney, Amal Kandar, Elaine Flis, and Tanya Hickey.

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A service created for employers, job seekers with a disability, and employment support professionals to come together to track, match, and secure meaningful job opportunities. Learn more >>

Hiring a person with a disability – The Business Case

Disability and Employment: The Business Case – full version

Employers from a variety of organizations talk about their experiences and the various ways that being open to disabled talent has been good for business.

We hear from some of their employees too.
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Return on Disability (2016)

CBC News looks at how Canadian businesses have found hiring disabled Canadians has boosted their bottom line. It’s an approach that’s been coined “return on disability.”
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Employable Me

Hear from job seekers speak about their own lived experience searching for employment and advocating for accommodation.

Discussion panel: Lucia Marchionatta, Jessica Rotolo, Dorlean Lieghfars-Rotolo, Jonathan Anderson.

Moderated by: Greg David

Other Employers Are Doing It, You Can Too!

In 2003, Sam walked into a Starbuck’s location and asked Chris for a job. Chris said “yes”. This is a story of their journey, the ups and downs and what they have both learned about the benefits of the Employee/Employer relationship.

Fostering Inclusion and Diversity in the Workplace

In this important Keynote, Joel will invite employees to foster diversity and inclusion in a meaningful way. Joel will address how unconscious bias can affect our daily interactions and shape important decisions. He will outline how inclusion can help drive innovation and business

7 Ways to Fight Work Place Stress

Have you recently started working? Are you now feeling stressed about everything you have to do at work, or keeping your job? Work is hard sometimes, but there are many ways to cope. Below are some tips on stress management in the workplace.

  1. Talk to someone

    Your family and friends, your co-workers or even a job coach – talking about your stress can be really helpful. Even talking to your boss can help you feel better.

  2. Eat something and make sure you stay hydrated!

    It might sound obvious, but skipping meals and not drinking enough water can put a lot of pressure on our bodies – and in turn put us in a bad mood. Bring a reusable bottle of water and a snack to work or keep a few non-perishable snacks in your locker or bag just in case.

  3. Workplace Activities

    Take part in various workplace activities – dances, baseball games, holiday parties etc. This will give you a chance to blow off steam and get to know your co-workers a little better.

  4. Take a Moment to Relax

    When you feel overwhelmed, take a mini-break to stretch, breathe deep, or roll your head.

  5. Reminders

    Keep photos handy of loved ones, vacations or hobbies that you enjoy outside of work. These will be reminders that while your day might be stressful, it will be over soon enough.

  6. Take advantage of your break times

    Breaks are important – they give you a chance to recharge. Try to plan ahead to have something to eat (rather than walking around trying to find something). Sit and relax if you are on your feet a lot or go outside if you are in the same place. Do something different.

  7. Be organized

    A lot of stress at work can be avoided if we become more organized. Start wearing a watch so you know what time it is. Get your lunch and clothes ready the night before work so that you have more time in the morning to get ready (and therefore aren’t rushing to be on time). Plan your travel time – if you know it takes you 30 minutes to get there, give yourself 45 or even 60. If you aren’t rushed it will go a long way to ensuring you are on top of your duties.

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